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Why Interest Rates Matter for Canadians

Interest rates are the single most powerful lever in Canada's economy.  When the Bank of Canada adjusts its policy rate, the effects reach every household—from the cost of carrying a mortgage to the return on a savings account. With rates currently at 2.25% and significant uncertainty ahead, understanding how rates work has never been more important for your finances. What Is the Bank of Canada's Policy Rate? The Bank of Canada sets the overnight policy rate—the interest rate at which major banks lend money to each other. This rate serves as a benchmark that influences borrowing and lending costs across the entire economy. When the Bank raises or lowers this rate, commercial banks adjust their prime rates accordingly, which directly affects the rates you pay on mortgages, lines of credit, and other loans. The Bank's primary goal is to keep inflation near its 2% target. When inflation runs too hot, the Bank raises rates to cool spending. When the economy slows, it cuts rates...

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Common Credit Card Mistakes





 Here are some common credit card mistakes that even high-credit score mavens make:

1. Carrying a balance: Carrying a balance on your credit card can lead to high-interest charges and negatively impact your credit score 1.

2. Using most or all of your credit limit: Using most or all of your credit limit can increase your credit utilization ratio, which can negatively impact your credit score 1.

3. Taking cash advances: Cash advances usually come with high fees and interest rates, making them an expensive way to borrow money 1.

4. Making late payments: Late payments can lead to late fees, increased interest rates, and negatively impact your credit score 1.

5. Chasing rewards: Chasing rewards can lead to overspending and carrying a balance on your credit card, which can negatively impact your credit score 1.



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